Bridgers skillfully weaves symbols throughout her novel, enhancing the themes without disrupting the plot.

Music is introduced in the title and recurs throughout the novel as a source of respite. Wren willingly spends long hours at the piano and endures the anxiety of competition because music is a part of her and a key to an important element in her life. Kevin finds refuge in his stereo and the rock music he sends blaring throughout the house.

Bliss, the piano teacher, accepts Kevin's music because it speaks to him now at this moment in his life. After teaching Wren all she knows about the piano, Bliss delivers her to another teacher to continue the training. Finally, music brings the three of them together as they join in a familiar song as the novel ends.

Bridgers uses the body language of her characters as an indicator of...